Warren Magnuson a.k.a Sandpoint Park

Hike Length: Several
Elevation Gain: 100'
Hike Difficulty: easy
Map: None recommended


At 350 acres, Warren G. Magnuson Park (or "Sandpoint Park" as it commonly called) is Seattle's second largest park, behind Discovery Park. Its main features include almost a mile of Lake Washington waterfront, swimming beaches, vast lawns and sports fields, and Seattle's best off-leash dog area.

The park was a naval air station for most of the 20th century, having been decommissioned and turned over to Seattle in 1975. The military roots of the park still show. Remnants of runways, old buildings, and even weapons bunkers can be seen. The park is a bit of a diamond in the rough, but the healing process is well on its way. The city has a long-term plan to remove rundown buildings and crumbling runways to create more natural areas. It's already pretty nice now!

Getting There:

From downtown Seattle, catch the M 71 bus and ride as far as it goes on 65th Street. Walk down the hill to the park's entrance across Sandpoint Way. The M 75 bus, starting in the University District, goes right to the park's entrance.

The Hike:

No hiking itinerary is recommended, just wander about. Head for the water, take a swim at the beach, and follow the paved promenade north to Seattle's best off-leash dog park. The grassy Kite Hill is nearby and offers one of the best views in Seattle.

At the south end of the park, beyond the boat ramp and parking area, is a wooded hill called Promontory Point, Trails climb up and over the hill to give you a bit of a view and exercise.

At the north end of the park is the NOAA facility. Once, you could wander along the waterfront there and enjoy a range of interesting outdoor art projects, including the wind-powered, eerily howling Sound Garden. But heightened security has blocked the easy entrance by the lake shore. You can still visit, but you have to check in at the guard gate at the main entrance off Sandpoint Boulevard. It's a bit of a hassle but worth doing.

Magnuson Park is close to the Burke-Gilman trail, and you can do more walking there you need it. Head north to Lake Forest Park or south to the University District.

Getting Back:

Hike up 65th St and catch the M 71 to downtown Seattle.